Popcorn is light to pack and endlessly versatile. There are multiple ways to pop popcorn over a campfire, from a cast-iron pot to simple aluminum-foil packets. Try this colander method, which doesn't require any oil.
One tablespoon of popcorn kernels will yield about 2 cups of popped popcorn, so estimate how many cups your stainless-steel colander can hold, then place no more kernels than will fit once popped in the bottom of the colander. Cover with a fire-safe lid or seal the top with aluminum foil, tenting it a bit if possible. Place colander on the fire’s grill, just outside the reach of flames. It can require quite a bit of heat for the popcorn to start popping, so if it doesn’t begin to pop after 5 minutes, build up the fire to increase the heat.
Meanwhile, place clarified butter in a small fire-safe pot. Set close to the edge of the fire to melt. Once popping slows, use thick fire-safe gloves or tongs to carefully remove colander from fire and lift lid/foil. Pour popcorn into serving bowls, drizzle with melted butter, and sprinkle with salt.
*Clarified butter (ghee) can be found in the pantry section of the grocery store. Unlike regular butter, clarified butter has been heated to remove water and milk solids so it won't soak into the popcorn and leave it soggy. As an added bonus, it stays solid at temperatures below 87 F, making it easy to pack in spring and fall. Liquid butter toppings found in the popcorn aisle will also work.
